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Phillies Poised to Trade Nick Castellanos as Salary Retention Emerges as Likely Path

Philadelphia underscored its plans when Dave Dombrowski said Castellanos will not be on the Opening Day roster.

Overview

  • Team president Dave Dombrowski publicly stated the club intends to move Castellanos before Opening Day.
  • MLB insider Ken Rosenthal said he expects a trade with the Phillies covering most of the roughly $20 million owed in 2026.
  • The Padres were identified as a potential fit as they seek a right-handed bat and have considered him at first base.
  • The Marlins and Pirates were also named as possibilities, with ESPN’s Jesse Rogers predicting a Pirates deal that includes Philadelphia retaining about $15 million and potentially receiving minimal return.
  • Reports attribute Castellanos’ thin market to his 2025 defensive decline and reduced role, and note the Phillies have sought a trade for roughly two seasons without success.